Numerous books about Robert Pattinson are currently available, but most of them are by writers who specialize in teen idols and read as if they’ve been written for a teen magazine. The Robert Pattinson Album is penned by British author Paul Stenning, whose previous biographies have been about hard rock bands such as Guns ‘n’ Roses, AC/DC and Iron Maiden, so it’s refreshing and frank, and though complimentary at times, the book sometimes even lightly pokes fun at Pattison, though not in a mean spirited way.

This book has tons of photographs, from Rob as a model and his beginnings as an actor in stage productions, through Harry Potter and then Twilight, as well as candid shots and other rarities, but it also includes an in-depth look at his life, from his childhood, his school years and early television roles to his relationship with his parents. If you had any questions about Rob’s background before he hit it big in Twilight, you’ll likely find it in this book.

Filled with quotes from Robert, revealing his self-deprecation, his humorous way of looking at the world and at the situation he’s been thrown into, it also shows how bewildering sudden fame can be to someone who wasn’t actually searching to be famous, but rather, dislikes being in the midst of a lot of people. He’s quoted as saying: “All my life I’ve hated crowds. Now I only have to step outdoors and I’m in the centre of one.”

Pattinson admits he never intended for his music to appear on the Twilight soundtrack and when he found out it would be included, was hoping that it would appear under a pseudonym (he likes the nickname Spunk Ransom). He also reveals that he had trouble getting a girlfriend before, but jokes that since Twilight, “I could have any 12-year-old I wanted.” Amusing anecdotes from those around Rob are included as well. Catherine Hardwicke admits that when she asked her 70-year-old mother if she would like to meet Kristen (who plays Bella in Twilight) and Rob, she answered, “Just Rob.”

At 95 pages in length, with over 75 color photographs, the book can be found at amazon.ca, chapters.indigo.ca and other outlets for under $20. If you’re a Twilight and/or Rob fan, it’s well worth the price.